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Around Town With HughE

ChitChat: Summer Events, preparing for Fall

Welcome to the Dog Days of Summer—those sweltering August afternoons and the last golden stretch before fall.

This summer was both relaxing and productive. I spent it reading, learning, and fine-tuning my craft. Even after 18 years, I’m reminded that curiosity and the drive to grow make life richer. I’d been coasting for a while, working through burnout and reintroducing myself after the pandemic pause.

Now, with America’s 250th anniversary on the horizon, I’m ready for the next chapter—documenting the decade ahead.

And yes, I’m bringing back my pre-pandemic promise: PhillyChitChat will be updated four days a week.

A few events I recently covered which have appeared on CBSPhilly, Fox29 and PCC SM Platforms.

Surf’s up in Atlantic City as Hard Rock Atlantic City, Heart of Surfing, and the Eagles Autism Foundation came together for an unforgettable day on the waves.

Children with autism and developmental disabilities took to the surf alongside the Philadelphia Eagles Cheerleaders, team mascot Swoop, and a dedicated crew of volunteers. Each participant received a soft-top surfboard, rash guard, and life vest—ensuring safety, comfort, and pure fun from the first wave to the last.

Caught up with new drink founder Cooper “Coop” Neel at the official launch of COOP Neuro Refreshers at H&H Bookstore in Fishtown. The event brought together Philly influencers and the Punch Media PR team to spotlight both bold new flavors and a mission to raise awareness about learning disabilities.

Cooper ‘Coop’ Neel and James Zeleniak. Founder & CEO Punch Media

Guests sampled four craft beverages, with the juicy, spicy Strawberry Jalapeño—featuring rooibos—emerging as the surprise favorite. Keep an eye out for COOP Neuro Refreshers at local clubs and restaurants; they’re a great option for a flavorful, alcohol-free mocktail. Check out Coop’s interview on my Instagram.

Caroline Yosef, Kathrine Martin has assumed the President & CEO Methodist Services, and Rebecca Seidenberg

Offseids New York Hosts Shop Night Benefiting Methodist Services

Offseids New York recently hosted a vibrant shop night in support of Methodist Services, with Stateside Vodka serving as a generous sponsor alongside an incredible lineup of raffle donors.

Joe and Ula DiGiovanni – I just had my first facial at Ula Facial Boutique in Ventnor. I’m a believer. It really made a difference in my glow, and skin tone. If you’re at the beach, I highly recommend them.

Methodist Services offers life-enriching programs for children, adults, and families navigating challenges such as limited resources, poverty, homelessness, disabilities, and inequities in education. Their work spans early childhood education, school-age programs, housing support, family services, mental health counseling, and nutrition programs—helping individuals and families build stability and thrive.

Alisa Frederico and Sabrina Tamburino Thorne

A portion of the evening’s proceeds went directly to Methodist Services, furthering their mission to provide essential resources and opportunities for those who need them most. Stay tuned for “Dancing with the Philly Stars”, a dancing event starring our neighbors and raising money for Methodist Services, on January 31, 2026.

On Tuesday, September 9th, the Moshulu will host Real Housewives of New Jersey star Margaret Joesphs for a meet-and-greet in advance of the Bite for the Fight Food Festival. In partnership with Kensington Food Company, fans will have the exclusive opportunity to meet Margaret and enjoy sparkling beverages with “Soiree,” her canned mocktail as well as light bites from the Moshulu. Bite for the Fight, organized by the Fight On Makenna Foundation, raises critical funds to support CHOP’s pediatric cancer research and family support services, making this pre-party a key event in the month’s awareness efforts.

The event will take place on the iconic Moshulu’s covered deck, with a VIP happy hour at 5:00 p.m. for media, followed by an open meet-and-greet with Margaret Josephs from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Guests will enjoy bites and the chance to connect with the reality TV star in an intimate setting.

Joseph Tordella, Debbie Tordella and Joe Tordella – Shout out to Debbie, who told me at Night in Venice OCNJ she’s a longtime chitchat blog reader. It was nice to meet her, and see her husband and son Joe again. Thanks to the Gabriele’s for hosting another fabulous party. I just prepared the photos for the October 2025 Philly Style Magazine.

I’m off to NYC for a few days, and next week will continue to prepare for the busy fall social season.

Socially yours, xoxo HughE

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Around Town With HughE

Soaring Above Rittenhouse: A Rare Gem at 10 Rittenhouse

Welcome to Unit 3102 at 10 Rittenhouse — a spectacular, nearly full-floor residence offering approximately 5,400 square feet of light-filled luxury with breathtaking views over the iconic Rittenhouse Square. This one-of-a-kind home combines the spacious feel of a modern townhome with the sophistication, service, and security of one of Philadelphia’s most prestigious addresses.

View of Rittenhouse Square and Delaware River from the south facing balcony

What makes this property truly exceptional? Let’s start with parking — a rarity in Center City. This unit comes with four garage spaces, including two ultra-rare self-park spots inside the building, plus two valet spaces. Whether you’re commuting daily or hosting guests, you’ll have the kind of flexibility most city dwellers can only dream of.

Step inside, and you’re greeted with 270-degree skyline views, framed by floor-to-ceiling glass doors and three private balconies. Every room is bathed in natural light, offering a sense of calm and openness. The sleek, modern design emphasizes clean lines and effortless flow throughout the space.

The living and entertaining areas are expansive, featuring a custom-built media wall with a 100″ TV and a hidden door to the AV closet. Nearby, a beautifully crafted bar area awaits — complete with a wine fridge, ice maker, sink, and an oversized walk-in pantry that doubles as a prep kitchen or staging space for events.

The dining area is a standout — perched at the southwest corner, it captures stunning corner-window views and is bathed in warm afternoon light. Perfectly positioned just off the gourmet kitchen, the layout is ideal for both intimate dinners and grand-scale entertaining.

The primary suite in Unit 3102 is a luxurious retreat, thoughtfully designed for both comfort and serenity.

Flooded with soft morning light, it boasts three spacious closets—two walk-ins and an exquisite L-shaped dressing room with an east-facing window.

Listing Agent:

Nigel Richards

Nigel Richards

The centerpiece walk-in closet, custom-designed by California Closets, is a dream—both functional and worthy of a magazine spread. Beyond the dressing room, a quiet home office space offers privacy and focus, complete with access to a private balcony that captures the gentle glow of the morning sun and sweeping city views.

The spa-inspired bath invites relaxation, featuring a jetted soaking tub with its own wall-mounted TV, separate water closet, and dual vanities. A third vanity, tucked just beyond the dressing area, provides the perfect spot for morning routines or evening glam.

Across the home, on the west wing, two additional bedroom suites are tucked beyond a cozy den, each with its own en-suite bathroom and generous closet space. Whether for guests, family, or an elegant work-from-home setup, these rooms offer flexibility and privacy.

Daily living is made seamless with two separate laundry areas—one discreetly located within the primary suite and another conveniently positioned near the kitchen. Every detail throughout the residence has been considered: automated Lutron lighting, powered sunshades and blackout drapes, and over a dozen individually zoned climate controls for year-round comfort.

At 10 Rittenhouse, you’ll enjoy the finest full-service amenities Philadelphia has to offer, including a 24/7 concierge, chauffeured town car, indoor pool, fitness center, and a private hospitality suite for your guests. The building’s discreet entrance on 18th Street places you steps from the best of Center City—world-class dining, shopping, and culture, all just outside your door.

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Around Town With HughE

5 Photos I took of Sheryl Lee Ralph’s 80 Foot Shawl

Sheryl Lee Ralph and Senator Vincent Hughes Renew Their Vows in a Romantic Re-commitment Ceremony on July 30th by Rev. Dr. Donald D. Moore, Pastor of Mount Carmel Baptist Church (MCBC) at the Philadelphia Art Museum; 20 years to the day since they married in LA in a lavish Hollywood wedding in 2005.

In June Sheryl Lee Ralph hinted in a People magazine interview about their upcoming anniversary, and said she’d like to exchange vows on the Rocky Steps of the Philadelphia Art Museum ; she wanted to have the longest veil on those steps ever, which she did, as an 80 foot shawl.

She told People Magazine, she was always inspired by the quote on the Rocky statue  “It’s not how hard you hit, it’s how hard you can get hit and keep moving forward – that’s how winning is done.”

She stepped off the bus and began walking up the steps, meeting the Senator halfway. With a princely gesture, he reached out his hand to her, kissed her, and they ascended the rest together as Diana Ross played from the speakers “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough!” (Hair by Carla Clarkson)

Twenty-two Philadanco ballerinas carried her custom shawl—designed by Perry Meek—up all 72 steps.

The couple said their own vows, which centered on the power of love as well as community, in front of guests including Al Roker, Deborah Roberts, Lieutenant Governor of Pennsylvania Austin Davis, and Sheryl’s sorority sisters from Delta Sigma Theta, many Philly politician’s were there including Mayor Cherelle L Parker, City Rep Jazelle Jones, Sen Anthony Williams, Congresswoman Mary Gay Scanlon, Patty Jackson, Dyanna Williams Joan Myers Brown, Mack Wilds, Felicia Williams, (Event producer Hi Touch Inc. produced the event!!) Suzann Christine Henry (also sang My One and Only Love) and Newly retired Essence magazine’s Susan Taylor were among the guests who cheered and clapped when Dreamgirl Sheryl Lee Ralph and Sen Vincent Hughes reached the top of the steps. (The guest list were close friends and family.)

I’ve been a fan of Sheryl Lee Ralph since the early ’90s, when I attended the second Divas Simply Singing concert in Washington, D.C. She was one of the first entertainers to bravely use her platform to raise awareness and funds for HIV/AIDS, and I’ll always admire her for that.

It’s been a real joy getting to know her more personally through PhillyChitChat—attending events she’s been part of here in Philadelphia, including another Divas Simply Singing concert at The Dell. When she landed the role on Abbott Elementary, she told me it felt like something special—and she was absolutely right. She is something special.

And so is he—Senator Hughes has done so much for Philadelphia and the state. Grateful for both of them!

I got these photos wearing my other hat, a paparazzo, from across the street standing on the Washington statue platform, after I was tipped off by a reader about an hour before the ceremony. So glad to be there, it was a JOY to witness. I withheld them until after Vogue online published, except for one outlet which had already gone live before the request came in. xoxo

Here’s a video I created with these and other photos.

PS To subscribe to this blog CLICK HERE

Socially Yours, Hughe

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Sheryl Lee Ralph Marries on the Art Museum Steps

But I can’t show you photos until August 5.

About 5PM July 30, I got a tip Sheryl Lee Ralph and Sen Vincent Hughes were renewing their vows on their 20th Anniversary of their wedding. My friend told me the wedding would be at 6PM sharp.

In the morning I noticed a tent going up at the top of the Rocky Stairs and thought, “Hmm… something’s happening.” So when I got a tip that Sheryl Lee Ralph and Senator Vincent Hughes were renewing their vows, I knew exactly where to be.

That photo perch? My old faithful on the Washington Monument across the street from the stairs.

I was quietly freaking out and texting two close friends who have known Sheryl and Sen Vincent Hughes as long as I have, about 14 years, they’re Philanthropic Philadelphians, the play-by-play—“Recognize this guest?” “Guess the song!” Then, cue the moment: Diana Ross’ Ain’t No Mountain High Enough blaring as Sheryl, in a stunning gown with a jaw-dropping train, walked up the Rocky Stairs. Vincent met her halfway, like Prince charming, and up they went, together. Another iconic moment on the Rocky Stairs.

I clocked the guest list, clocked the no-shows, took it all in. Then I went home, ate dinner like it was a normal Wednesday, and started sending photos to media outlets. I’m even prepping for a Fox 29 segment, my first in years since stage fright kicked in after one tiny on-air flub in 2019. But for Sheryl and Vincent? Totally worth facing the lights again. (I occasionally have done interviews, but not on a regular basis.)

Normally I would wait to appear on TV before I post a video, but I saw someone post one from inside the museum, and I thought I’d better get mine out there, but without a lot of detail. Then this happened: In a Barbara Howard dignified, firm voice:

Sheryl asked me to archive my photos because Vogue has the exclusive — and while I usually wouldn’t comply (hello, it was a very public wedding on the Rocky Stairs!), I made an exception out of respect.

Normally, I’d stand my ground — I photograph public fashion, public events, and no, I don’t need permission when it’s in a public space. But hey, it’s Sheryl. And it’s Vogue. So this time, I hit pause… temporarily.

I can’t wait to see her new ring!!

In an interview she did with Stephen Colbert last month, she told him about renewing her wedding vows on her 20th Anniversary. “I’m hoping that I get to have the longest veil in that ‘Rocky Steps’ history,” Ralph said, referring to the 72 stairs leading up to the Philadelphia Museum of Art, where the 1976 boxing drama was filmed.

And a veil isn’t the only bridal accessory she wants to rock for the occasion, which has been two decades in the making. “I need a new ring too. I need all of that,” she added.

P.S. I had already sent the photos to my wire service hours before the Vogue request came in (whoops). I politely asked them to hold off, but the toothpaste was already out of the tube. What I can control? Fulfilling the flurry of photo requests that came flooding in after the fact.

Look, I’ve been in this biz long enough to know how to handle sensitive moments. But this wasn’t one of them. I was in plain sight, surrounded by tourists and guests snapping pics, with police nearby — nobody told me to stop. It was a celebration in a very public place.

And honestly? I’m just putting this on record because, well… my video had already hit 50,000 views before I hit archive.

Socially Yours, HughE

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FDR Park is a Vibe

Earlier this summer, on June 7, Gateway Plaza at FDR Park was officially unveiled, marking the first major milestone in the park’s $250 million master plan. The renovation transformed the main entrance at Broad Street and Pattison Avenue, strengthening the connection between public transit and the park.

Tim Clair, Interim Chief Executive Officer.

I attended the preview party a few days before the ribbon cutting. Key features included a new “FDR” photogenic sign, 28 shaded benches (many designed for both gatherings and fitness), motion-sensor lighting, misters, bike racks, and an ADA-accessible walkway.

Landscaping efforts added 81 native trees to replace aging ones, along with new plantings, rain gardens, and redesigned grading to improve storm water management.

Darren Fava, Parks & Recreation, Cari Feiler Bender, PR Extrodinaire – Relief Communications, Susan Slawson, Commissioner · Philadelphia Parks & Recreation, guest and Ra’Chelle Rogers, Parks & Recreation.

Thanks you so much to Parks & Recreation for painting the white grid lines in front of the Art Museum and Logan Circle, black. I mentioned to Ra’Chelle at this event of the dangerous interpretation, as tourists were mistaking them for crosswalks and then playing frogger to cross the street. Something I had tried to get correct in the Kenny administration, but to no avail. They look great and no one is crossing in the middle of the block anymore. Thanks!!

Alexandria Kelly, JB Kelly and Neil Batiancila, Philadelphia Zoo

I love to bird watch at FDR park. Their is an Eagles nest near the meadows, and a Green Heron was recently spotted in the wetlands. Very exciting to us birders.

Sixers Drum Line

Julia Fleishner and Alice Bullitt
The new gateway at FDR Park at Broad and Pattison, across from the NRG Station
John Binswanger and Janet Binswanger
‘Chelle Rogers and Anton Moore
Max and Alexis Tuttleman
Chris and Shannon Wink, with Connor Barwin, who is hosting

The two-day Make the World Better Concert which kicks off tonight at FDR Park with Boygenius’ Lucy Dacus headlining Friday’s festivities. In between concert days, Diplo’s Run Club is debuting in Philadelphia where Diplo made a name for himself throwing his infamous Hollertronix parties & the Mad Decent Block Party! All the events this weekend support Barwin’s Make The World Better Foundation.

Make The World Better (MTWB) connects people and inspires community stewardship through the revitalization of public spaces. Guided by the belief that every community thrives when all people have access to high-quality spaces, MTWB focuses on creating safe, inclusive environments for recreation, sports, and the arts.

FDR Park has so much to offer, following them on their Instagram for a schedule of fun.

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Around Town With HughE

ChitChat: Rouge, Flight Club, Life of Pi

Hello everyone. Hope you are enjoying summer. I know it is so hot, and there is no relief even after the rain storms, but we have gotten some really great sunsets. This week I am house sitting, so I get to see sunsets from a different side of the building. Ahh maybe I will wake up at 5:30am Friday or Saturday and catch the sunrise from their balcony.

Last week started my summer vacation, which means I don’t have too many events scheduled to photograph. I will be re visiting events I photographed in the spring and placed in other outlets, to share here with a few BTS moments, and for us boomers BTS means Behind the Scenes. I’ve spent a some time down the shore, which was relaxing, with great family visits. I’ve spent a lot of time with friends, which is wonderful to do, and I get to see Mike more often, except he is working a lot, he loves his new position and they appreciate him and the positive changes he’s made in just a short period he’s been in this new role.

Tuesday night Mike and I hosted a few friends for a night at Flight Club (1417 Walnut) upscale entertainment concept combining food and beverage menus with dynamic tech-enabled Social Darts. It was soooo fun!! Very reasonable $17 pp for 90 minutes of play. Food and drinks were regular prices. For the 6 of us the bill was $400 plus tip. On Friday night they have a DJ pumping up the jam. The service and staff are terrific. It’s a lot of fun, I highly recommend it. We celebrated Mike’s birthday, which was the next day July 16.

Last night we went to see the Life of Pi! I never read the book, or saw the movie. Everyone has raved over it for years, as they did last night. Mike and I thought it was going to be an uplifting, musical with feathers and dancing. It was not. It was a thought provoking tale of life, choices and how to cope.

The acting was superb, there were animal characters who were puppets, and magnificent to watch. Yesterday Ensemble Arts hosted a “Master Class” with the star of the show, and the puppeteers, which was informative and entertaining. It’s at the Academy of Music through July 27th.

Nice work, Rouge! Their new streetery is compact, stylish, and lush with plants, umbrellas, and cozy tableside seating.

I visited a few weeks ago for Mike Jerrick’s birthday when his daughter’s diamond bracelet slipped through the floorboards. Staff marked the spot with red ink, and just yesterday, they told me they found it! Even better they also recovered a wedding ring lost back in 2022. Both items have been returned to their rightful owners… along with a whole lot of silverware!

Rouge is one of more than 20 restaurants that had to redesign their streeteries to comply with the City of Philadelphia’s updated outdoor dining regulations.

This looks like something fun for the kids to do during the dog days of summer next week.

Chit Chat soon, in the mean time you can find me on Instagram posting a few times a day. PhillyChitChat

Socially Yours, HughE

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Wonders Beyond Words Gala

The Wonders Beyond Words Gala, hosted by the Free Library of Philadelphia Foundation, returned in full splendor on April 4, 2025. It had been a few years since I last attended—life and scheduling conflicts got in the way—but stepping back into the grand halls of the iconic library, which has graced the city since 1894, was like revisiting a cherished chapter of a beloved book. The evening stirred up all the magic and elegance I remembered—and then some.

Susan Gould,The Free Library of Philadelphia Foundation Cobi Weissbach, Chief Strategy and Advancement Officer at the Free Library of Philadelphia Foundation and Monique Moore Pryor, Esq. executive director Free Library of Philadelphia Foundation
A. Morris Williams, Jr., and Leslie Ann Miller

This annual event, held in celebration of the library’s vital role in community, honored A. Morris Williams, Jr., a longtime advocate and Emeritus Board Member. Williams’ visionary support has been essential in advancing the library’s mission and expanding its impact across Philadelphia.

Monique Moore-Pryor, President of the Free Library of Philadelphia Foundation, praised Williams for his dedication and leadership, which have guided the library through pivotal moments in its history.

Karen Bassetti, Robert Heim and Lily C Bassetti
Derrick Smith and Alistair Glover
Keith Leaphart, DO, MBA, Executive Vice President (EVP) and Humana Chief Health Equity and Community Impact Officer of Jefferson Health, Donna Bullock, President and CEO of Project Home and Senator Sharif Street
Mark and Tobey Dichter
Jamie Blair, Quinha Faria, Ricky Perez, Sarajane Blair and Brad Copeland
Ryan Fleur, President & CEO · The Philadelphia Orchestra and Ensemble Arts and wife Lara Banchaero
Ballet X entertained the guests before dinner
Gala Co Chairs Barbara Sutherland and Leslie Ann Miller

Nearly 750 guests filled the main hall, and adjacent rooms. Funds raised at the gala support the Foundation’s programs, which benefit approximately 2.2 million Philadelphians annually

Ballet X entertained the guests before dinner

Spotted among the crowd included Civic and business leaders such as David and Elaine Binswanger, Michael and Anna Marie Gewirtz, Quinta Faria, Jamie Blair, Ricky Perez, Mustafa Rashed, Joe Meade, Joseph Neubauer, and Tom and Jodi Cole, Grace and Barry O’Sullivan, Sheila Hess, Michelle Tepper, Daniel Blank and Sarah Case.

Catering: Jaccaranda Events
Flowers and Decor: Xtraordinary Events
Sound: Eventions
Coordinator & PR: Cashman & Assocs.

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Pham Camp Re Cap

Back in April, a new movement was launched on a beautiful day in Love Park: the Phambassadors. Kathryn Ott Lovell, president and CEO of the Philadelphia Visitor Center, introduced the program — an initiative aiming to rally over 10,000 proud Philadelphians in the next two years. Together, this growing community will help shape how the world sees and experiences the city, leading up to 2026 and beyond.

Kathryn Ott Lovell, president and CEO of the Philadelphia Visitor Center and Neil Frauenglass. Chief Marketing Officer of Visit Philadelphia

Fast forward to June 21 — the Phambassadors kicked things off with their very first Pham Camp, held at the Visitor Center! Over 150 proud Philadelphians signed up to learn how to turn their city love into street-level magic. You know the moment: someone’s staring at a map, squinting at their phone, scanning street signs , looking lost. Your Philly instincts kick in — and boom — you’re pointing them toward the Liberty Bell or even where their doctor’s office is located, like a local legend. That’s the Phambassador spirit!

The morning started with a continental breakfast.

where Phambassadors signed the pledge to do their part in sharing their Philly love to others.

Phambasadors: Steve Simon poses with “George Washington” both of whom have signed on to the volunteer program.

Hannah Mullen, Jacki Mowery and Sudha Suryadevara – Pham Camp Counselors

Each Phambassador was assigned to a “Street Named” table and what I really appreciated was that if you signed up with a friend or spouse, they made sure to seat you separately. It was a smart move to encourage individuality and fresh connections.

Christian Bingham, Ariel Gonzalez, Karen Knobel and Jean Rath

The program kicked off at 9 a.m. sharp, with a packed room full of eager Philadelphians ready to become top-notch city ambassadors.

The morning started with a welcome from Ott Lovell sharing that the Phambassador program is flexible, letting participants engage at their own pace—whether it’s sharing good news online, volunteering at events, or spotlighting Philly’s hidden gems, there’s a role for everyone.

Speakers included Matt O’Donnell, 6ABC, Chef Jacquie Kelly from Streets of Philly Food Tours who surprised us with cannolis served after lunch, film maker Sam Katz showing snippets of some of his Emmy award winning documentaries,

Ronnie Polaneczky, the Phambassadors Organizational Recruitment Outreach Strategist

Matt Ray, Chatterblast, whose company helped create the branding for the Phambassadors, Alphonso Dashiell, The Black Journey and the grand finale a surprise appearance by the Phillie Phanatic!

It was a great day, with lots of break out sessions, brain storming, quizzes and comradeship.

Super Phams: Tiphanie White, Sheila Hess, Ken Anderson, Kathryn Ott Lovell and HughE Dillon

Ott Lovell emphasized Phambassador members get access to “exclusive events, local perks and exciting updates.”

Sign Up to be a Phambassador, get ready for an exciting new adventure, sharing the joy of Philly, with others. Make sure to come out to the next Pham Camp in the fall.

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Around Town With HughE

One Shots: Newsy Photos

OMGosh it’s nearly July. I am sooo happy, as it means the end of Spring Social Season, and the beginning of getting lots done which I didn’t do at the end of Fall Social Season cause I fell. Things really slow down for me, events are few and far between after the July 4th Festivities.

Last year I went away, this year I will be covering a lot of events as my three big clients, PECO, IBX and Jefferson Hospital are sponsors. Hope to see you out and about, if not continue to follow these pages and my social for what’s happening in and around Philly.

I spotted a new mural, it is on Sansom Street, on the back of the Philadelphia Film Society Building. What great memories on the wall, many which I experienced like QFest, GPFO – twice they have had Rocky movies debut here with Sylvester Stallone in attendance, the Black Star Film Festival, Philly Cam. I hear the dedication will coincide with the re opening date of the theater, after it finishes the $4 million renovations, in September. Congrats to Carla Ricci, COO/CDO of the Phila Film Society “I am honored to join the Philadelphia Film Society at such an exciting time,” I worked with Carla at the Eisenhower Fellowships .

The Portal has landed in City Hall’s Courtyard! It’s open when the other side of the world is awake—spreading smiles across time zones. If you’ve passed by lately, you might’ve noticed one side is ‘out.’ Word is the heatwave knocked it offline last week. Don’t worry—it’ll be back up just in time for the Fourth of July fireworks!

Have you noticed these charming little pocket parks popping up around town? There’s one at Dilworth Park, another at Filbert Square, Logan Square—and now a beautiful new one at Love Park! These native habitats are designed to support pollinators, featuring plants like Swamp Milkweed, which is essential for the life cycle of the Monarch butterfly. Volunteers laid the groundwork during Love Your Park Week in May, while curious neighbors stopped by to learn why pollinators matter. Philly’s getting greener—and buzzier! Over the past two years, the National Wildlife Federation and Pennsylvania Horticultural Society have teamed up to transform vacant lots across West and Northwest Philadelphia into 50 vibrant, climate-resilient pollinator gardens and now are creating them in actual parks in Center City. Have you seen them elsewhere?

Seen on the Web

A Call for artists; PCDC in partnership with the Trocadero Theatre Project is seeking proposals for temporarry public art installation on the boarded up building.

🖌️The chosen artist will work with a budget not to exceed $7,000 to design, produce, and install a piece that reflects the history of the Trocadero Theatre and Chinatown. 📅 Submit your application forml by email to hshang@chinatown-pcdc.org Application Form (English): tinyurl.com/trocaderocallforartistEN

Summer is here and we want to make the living easy. If you drive like me, and you want to spend time at the waterfront, it’s hectic with the building of the 95 cap to create the park. Here is a list of the parking garages in the area.

What to Know Before You Go: Coming to enjoy our incredible Independence Day Weekend celebrations on June 27-June 29? Level up your planning by checking out the nearby parking options before your visit. INFO

OK now go out and enjoy the day!!

Socially yours, HughE

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Hard Rock AC Celebrates 7th Anniversary

As Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City gears up to celebrate its official seventh anniversary on Saturday June 28—an occasion proudly marked as “Hard Rock Day” by Atlantic City officials since 2018—the iconic resort is turning up the volume on its commitment to the local community.

Hard Rock kicked off a week of community give backs. On June 25, top leaders including Jim Allen, CEO of Seminole Gaming and Chairman of Hard Rock International, George Goldhoff, President of Hard Rock Atlantic City, and Michael Sampson, General Manager, joined Atlantic City residents at New Shiloh Baptist Church for a heartfelt Neighborhood Town Hall. The event wasn’t just talk—Hard Rock presented the church with a $10,000 donation to support their mission of providing essential resources to neighbors in need.

On June 26, the energy was electric as Hard Rock team members, joined by celebrity musician lookalikes, rolled up their sleeves to pack 777 birthday-themed food boxes

for the Community FoodBank of New Jersey—ensuring that food-insecure children get to feel special on their big day.

Michael R helped organize the kits. Each Hard Rock employee has a name tag with their favorite music player on it. He loves Culture Club.

No doubt he got a selfie with “Boy George” who was on hand all day for the festivities, along with Cher and Prince. Here they are on hand to cut the ribbon at the The Hard Rock Bet Digital Center, located at the Unity Player’s Club. Guests can now sign up, get access to exclusive offers, and receive in-person support from the Hard Rock Digital team

Later that day, Hard Rock hosted a community luncheon where $7,000 grants were awarded to seven outstanding local nonprofits, each working to uplift Atlantic City’s most underserved communities.

“As we welcome the arrival of the summer season, we are proud to showcase our unwavering commitment to excellence by offering the most unique entertainment and guest experiences on the boardwalk” said George Goldhoff, President of Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City. “Alongside our owners, the Seminole Tribe of Florida, and our partners, Jack Morris, Joe Jingoli and Michael Jingoli, we look forward to providing our guests with the ultimate experience this summer.” George also re iterated the commitment to giving back to the community; partnerships who were making a difference in society, and the Hard Rock family was grateful to their service.

Among the honorees: Jewish Family Services, Covenant House, The Arc of Atlantic County, Veteran’s Haven South, AC Pride, Diabetes Training Camp Foundation, and Chicken Bone Beach Historical Foundation.

Tonight Hard Rock is celebrating the kick off of the Fourth of July celebration with fireworks and an invite party tonight. Tomorrow night rock icon Jackson Browne Live at Etess Arena

7TH ANNIVERSARY GIVEAWAY 🎉 To celebrate our 7th anniversary, we are giving away the ultimate Hard Rock “Floor Pass!” 7 lucky winners will receive 2 GENERAL ADMISSION tickets to 7 SHOWS of their choice

Thanks Hard Rock for your commitment to your guests, as well as the community at large!! Happy Anniversary!!